Apparatus for aligning sections of pipe

ABSTRACT

An apparatus for aligning sections of pipe includes a first clamp member and a second clamp member coupled with the first clamp member. The first and second clamp members each include a first clamp jaw and a second clamp jaw longitudinally spaced from the first clamp jaw. Each one of a first plurality of turnbuckle assemblies is coupled with each one of the first and second clamp jaws of the first clamp member, and each one of a second plurality of turnbuckle assemblies is coupled with each one of the first and second clamp jaws of the second clamp member. An assembly made from a kit of components is also disclosed. The kit includes an apparatus for aligning sections of pipe, and a plurality of shoe inserts. The assembly includes the apparatus and at least two of the shoe inserts coupled with the apparatus.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

This application claims the priority benefit of U.S. Provisional PatentApplication Ser. No. 61/918,263, “Apparatus For Joining And AligningSections of Pipe”, filed Dec. 19, 2013, which is hereby expresslyincorporated by reference herein in its entirety.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present invention generally relates to an apparatus that serves tohold the adjacent ends of two separate sections of pipe securely, sothat they may be effectively welded or otherwise joined to form a singlecontinuous pipe.

BACKGROUND

Known devices for aligning two adjacent sections of pipe, to facilitatewelding the sections of pipe together, include devices that are capableof adjusting the longitudinal and lateral positions of the sections ofpipe, and within certain limitations, of adjusting the orientations ofthe end faces of the sections of pipe between an angular orientation anda parallel orientation.

SUMMARY

According to one embodiment, an apparatus for aligning sections of pipe,includes a first clamp member, a second clamp member, a first hinge anda second hinge. The first clamp member includes a first clamp jaw and asecond clamp jaw longitudinally spaced from the first clamp jaw. Thesecond clamp member includes a first clamp jaw and a second clamp jawlongitudinally spaced from the first clamp jaw. Each of the first clampjaw of the first clamp member and the first clamp jaw of the secondclamp member is pivotally coupled with the first hinge. Each of thesecond clamp jaw of the first clamp member and the second clamp jaw ofthe second clamp member is pivotally coupled with the second hinge. Theapparatus also includes a first plurality of turnbuckle assemblies and asecond plurality of turnbuckle assemblies. Each of the first pluralityof turnbuckle assemblies is coupled with each one of, and is adjustableto vary the longitudinal spacing between, the first clamp jaw and thesecond clamp jaw of the first clamp member. Each of the second pluralityof turnbuckle assemblies is coupled with each one of, and is adjustableto vary the longitudinal spacing between, the first clamp jaw and thesecond clamp jaw of the second clamp member.

According to another embodiment, an apparatus for aligning sections ofpipe includes a first clamp member, a second clamp member hingedlycoupled with the first clamp member, and a plurality of turnbuckleassemblies. The first clamp member includes a first clamp jaw and asecond clamp jaw longitudinally spaced from the first clamp jaw. Thesecond clamp member includes a first clamp jaw and a second clamp jawlongitudinally spaced from the first clamp jaw. Each one of theturnbuckle assemblies includes a rod and a torquing member secured tothe rod, and also includes a first clevis and a second clevis. Each oneof the first clevis and the second clevis is threadedly engaged withrod. For each of the turnbuckle assemblies, the first clevis and thesecond clevis each have a length, and the torquing member includes afirst end surface and a second end surface spaced from the first endsurface by a first distance. The first end surface of the torquingmember is spaced from the first clevis by a second distance, and thesecond end surface of the torquing member is spaced from the secondclevis by a third distance. The length of each one of the first clevisand the second clevis is greater than each one of the first distance,the second distance, and the third distance. Each one of a firstplurality of the turnbuckle assemblies is coupled with each one of, andis adjustable to vary the longitudinal spacing between, the first clampjaw and the second clamp jaw of the first clamp member. Each one of asecond plurality of the turnbuckle assemblies is coupled with each oneof, and is adjustable to vary the longitudinal spacing between, thefirst clamp jaw and the second clamp jaw of the second clamp member.

According to another embodiment, an apparatus for aligning sections ofpipe includes a first clamp member, a second clamp member hingedlycoupled with the first clamp member, a first plurality of turnbuckleassemblies, a second plurality of turnbuckle assemblies, and a pluralityof spacers. The first clamp member includes a first clamp jaw and asecond clamp jaw longitudinally spaced from the first clamp jaw. Thesecond clamp member includes a first clamp jaw and a second clamp jawlongitudinally spaced from the first clamp jaw. Each of the firstplurality of turnbuckle assemblies is coupled with each one of the firstclamp jaw and the second clamp jaw of the first clamp member. Each ofthe second plurality of turnbuckle assemblies is coupled with each oneof the first clamp jaw and the second clamp jaw of the second clampmember. Each one of the first clamp jaw and the second clamp jaw of thefirst clamp member, and each one of the first clamp jaw and the secondclamp jaw of the second clamp member, includes a first frame and asecond frame spaced from the first frame by at least a respective pairof the spacers. Each one of the first frame and the second frameincludes a plurality of layered plates.

According to another embodiment, an assembly is made from a kit ofcomponents. The kit includes an apparatus for aligning sections of pipeand a plurality of shoe inserts. The apparatus is configured to adjustthe positions of a first section of pipe and a second section of pipe,at least longitudinally and laterally, to align the first section ofpipe to the second pipe section, and to facilitate joining the first andsecond sections of pipe. Each one of the first and second sections ofpipe includes an outside diameter having a first magnitude. Each one ofthe shoe inserts is configured to engage a section of pipe including anoutside diameter having a second magnitude. The second magnitude is lessthan the first magnitude. The apparatus includes a first clamp memberand a second clamp member hingedly coupled with the first clamp member.The assembly includes the apparatus for aligning sections of pipe and atleast one of the shoe inserts coupled with the first clamp member and atleast another one of the shoe inserts coupled with the second clampmember.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Various embodiments of an apparatus for aligning sections of pipe, aswell as an assembly comprising the apparatus and a plurality of shoeinserts coupled with the apparatus, will become better understood withregard to the following description, appended claims and accompanyingdrawings wherein:

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an apparatus for aligning sections ofpipe according to one embodiment, with the apparatus being depicted in aclosed position and in association with first and second sections ofpipe;

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the apparatus of FIG. 1, but with theapparatus being depicted in an upright orientation, rather than ahorizontal orientation for purposes of illustration, and with theapparatus being depicted in an open position;

FIG. 3 is an end view of the apparatus of FIG. 2;

FIG. 4 is a perspective view similar to FIG. 2, but with the apparatusbeing depicted in a closed position;

FIG. 5 is an end view of the apparatus in a closed position as depictedin FIG. 4;

FIG. 6 is an elevation view of the apparatus in a closed position asshown in FIG. 4, and depicts a longitudinal spacing between first andsecond clamp jaws of each one of a first clamp member and a second clampmember of the apparatus, and further depicting the spacing betweenturnbuckle assemblies of the apparatus;

FIG. 7 is another elevation view of the apparatus in a closed positionas shown in FIG. 4, depicting a pair of latch bolts and associated latchplates of the apparatus, in association with the first and second clampmembers;

FIG. 8 is yet another elevation view of the apparatus, as shown in FIG.4, depicting a pair of hinges of the apparatus which hingedly couple thefirst clamp member of the apparatus with the second clamp member of theapparatus;

FIG. 9 is a plan view of a frame of one of the clamp jaws of theapparatus of FIG. 2;

FIG. 10 is a plan view of a turnbuckle assembly of the apparatus of FIG.2;

FIG. 11 is a plan view similar to FIG. 10, but with the turnbuckleassembly rotated 90 degrees;

FIG. 12 is a plan view depicting a rod and a torquing member of theturnbuckle assembly of FIG. 10;

FIG. 13 is a plan view depicting a turnbuckle lug of the apparatus ofFIG. 2;

FIG. 14 is an elevation view depicting one end of the turnbuckle lug ofFIG. 13;

FIG. 15 is an elevation view depicting an opposite end of the turnbucklelug of FIG. 13;

FIG. 16 is an enlarged, fragmentary perspective view of the apparatus ofFIG. 2, depicting a plurality of spacers separating first and secondframes of one of the clamp jaws of the apparatus;

FIG. 17 is a plan view of a latch bolt of the apparatus of FIG. 2;

FIG. 18 is a plan view of a latch plate of the apparatus of FIG. 2;

FIG. 19 is an enlarged, fragmentary perspective view depicting a portionof the apparatus of FIG. 2;

FIG. 20 is a plan view of a hinge according to one embodiment;

FIG. 21 is an elevation view of the hinge of FIG. 20;

FIG. 22 is a perspective view of an apparatus for aligning sections ofpipe according to another embodiment, with the apparatus being depictedin a closed position and in association with a first, straight sectionof pipe and a second, L-shaped section of pipe;

FIG. 23 is a perspective view of the apparatus of FIG. 22, with theapparatus in a closed position, but with the apparatus being depicted inan upright orientation, rather than a horizontal orientation forpurposes of illustration;

FIG. 24 is a plan view of the apparatus of FIG. 23;

FIG. 25 is a cross-sectional view taken along line 25-25 in FIG. 24;

FIG. 26 is a plan view of a shoe insert according to one embodiment;

FIG. 27 is an elevation view depicting the shoe insert of FIG. 26;

FIG. 28 is a plan view depicting a pair of the shoe inserts of FIG. 26coupled with the apparatus of FIG. 23; and

FIG. 29 is a plan view similar to FIG. 28, but with one of the shoeinserts omitted, depicting the association of each shoulder of the shoeinsert with a post of a respective turnbuckle lug.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Referring to the drawings, wherein like reference numbers indicate thesame or corresponding elements throughout the views, FIGS. 1-8illustrate an apparatus 10 for aligning sections of pipe according toone embodiment. Apparatus 10 can be used to align two adjacent sectionsof pipe, and to securely hold the two sections of pipe, to facilitatewelding, or otherwise joining, the sections of pipe together to form asingle, continuous pipe. For example, FIG. 1 illustrates apparatus 10 insurrounding relationship with a first section of pipe 12, and anadjacent, second section of pipe 14, to facilitate welding pipe sections12 and 14, or to facilitate joining pipe sections 12 and 14 using adifferent process.

Referring to FIG. 4, apparatus 10 can include a first clamp member 16and a second clamp member 18, which can be coupled with the first clampmember 16. In one embodiment, the first clamp member 16 can be hingedlycoupled with the second clamp member 18 with a pair of hinges 20 (FIG.8). Each one of the first clamp member 16 and the second clamp member 18can be pivotable between an open position, for example, as shown in FIG.2, and a closed position (FIGS. 1, 4 and 7). The first clamp member 16and the second clamp member 18 can be opened sufficiently to receivefirst and second sections of pipe. Each one of the first clamp member 16and the second clamp member 18, as well as other components of theapparatus 10, can be constructed from stainless steel, or any otherdurable and strong metal alloy or metal. Each of the hinges 20 can beconstructed from a plurality of plates 21, for example, two or moreplates 21 (FIGS. 2 and 8). Alternatively, each hinge 20 can beconstructed from a single member, for example, a single plate.

The first clamp member 16 can include a first clamp jaw 22 and a secondclamp jaw 24 longitudinally spaced from the first clamp jaw 22. Thesecond clamp member 18 can include a first clamp jaw 26 and a secondclamp jaw 28 longitudinally spaced from the first clamp jaw 26. Each oneof the first clamp jaw 22 of the first clamp member 16 and the firstclamp jaw 26 of the second clamp member 28 can be pivotally coupled witha first one of the hinges 20, and each one of the second clamp jaw 24 ofthe first clamp member 16 and the second clamp jaw 28 of the secondclamp member 18 can be pivotally coupled with a second one of the hinges20.

Each one of the first clamp jaw 22 of the first clamp member 16, and thefirst clamp jaw 26 of the second clamp member 18, can be configured tosurround and engage respective portions of a first section of pipe, forexample, respective portions of the first section of pipe 12, as shownin FIG. 1, when each one of the first clamp member 16 and the secondclamp member 18 is in the respective closed position. Each one of thesecond clamp jaw 24 of the first clamp member 16, and the second clampjaw 28 of the second clamp member 18, can be configured to surround andengage respective portions of a second section of pipe, for example,respective portions of the second section of pipe 14, as shown in FIG.1, when each of the first clamp member 16 and the second clamp member 18is in the respective closed position. The first clamp member 16 can besecured to the second clamp member 18 when each is in the respectiveclosed position. In one embodiment, the first clamp member 16 can beclamped to the second clamp member 18 when each is in the respectiveclosed position.

The apparatus 10 can also include a plurality of turnbuckle assemblies30. As shown in FIGS. 10 and 11, each turnbuckle assembly 30 can includea rod 32 and a torquing member 34 secured to the rod 32, for example, bywelding the torquing member 34 to the rod 32. In one embodiment, thetorquing member 34 can be a nut, which can have a polygonal shape, asshown in FIGS. 10-12. In other embodiments, torquing members havingother shapes and configurations, for example, torquing members having anelongated shape, can be secured to a rod of a turnbuckle assembly. Therod 32 of the turnbuckle assembly 30 can include a first portion 36(FIG. 12) having right-hand male threads and a second portion 38 (FIG.12) having left-hand male threads. The turnbuckle assembly 30 can alsoinclude a first clevis 40 and a second clevis 42 (FIGS. 10-11), witheach being threadedly engaged with the rod 32. For example, each of thefirst clevis 40 and the second clevis 42 can define female threads,which permit the first clevis 40 to be threaded onto one of the firstportion 36 and the second portion 38 of the rod 32, and which permit thesecond clevis 42 to be threaded onto the other one of the first portion36 and the second portion 38 of the rod 32. The torquing member 34 canbe positioned between the first clevis 40 and the second clevis 42.

Each one of a first of plurality of the turnbuckle assemblies 30,designated 30 a in FIGS. 1-5, 7 and 8, can be coupled with each one ofthe first clamp jaw 22 and the second clamp jaw 24 of the first clampmember 16, and can be adjustable, to vary the longitudinal spacingbetween the first clamp jaw 22 and the second clamp jaw 24 of the firstclamp member 16. Each one of a second plurality of the turnbuckleassemblies, designated 30 b in FIGS. 1-8, can be coupled with each oneof the first clamp jaw 26 and the second clamp jaw 28 of the secondclamp member 18, and can be adjustable to vary the longitudinal spacingbetween the first clamp jaw 26 and the second clamp jaw 28. The firstplurality of turnbuckle assemblies 30 a can be circumferentially spacedalong the first clamp member 16, and the second plurality of turnbuckleassemblies 30 b can be circumferentially spaced along the second clampmember 18.

Each of the turnbuckle assemblies 30 can be adjusted by rotating therespective torquing member 34 and rod 32. As a result of the firstportion 36 of the rod 32 having right-hand male threads and the secondportion 38 of the rod 32 having left-hand male threads, rotation of thetorquing member 34 and rod 32 in one direction can cause the firstclevis 40 and the second clevis 42 to move toward each other, androtation of the torquing member 34 and the rod 32 in the oppositedirection can cause the first clevis 40 and the second clevis 42 to moveaway from each other.

In one embodiment, the first clevis 40 and the second clevis 42 can havedifferent colors, which can facilitate the assembly and use of theturnbuckle assemblies 30. In one embodiment, one of the first clevis 40and the second clevis 42 can have a silver color, as a result of zincplating, and the other one of the first clevis 40 and the second clevis42 can be plated to have a gold color. However, in other embodiments,any one of a variety of other color combinations can be used. In yetanother embodiment, the first clevis 40 and the second clevis 42 canhave the same color.

It can be desirable to have the first clamp jaw 22 and the second clampjaw 24 of the first clamp member 16 move toward each other, and to havethe first clamp jaw 26 and the second clamp jaw 28 of the second clampmember 18 move toward each other, when the torquing member 34 and therod 32 of each one of the first plurality of turnbuckle assemblies 30 a,and each one of the torquing member 34 and the rod 32 of the secondplurality of turnbuckle assemblies 30 b, respectively, is rotated in afirst direction. Further, it can be desirable to have the first clampjaw 22 and the second clamp jaw 24 move away from each other, and tohave the first clamp jaw 26 and the second clamp jaw 28 move away fromeach other, when the torquing member 34 and the rod 32 of each one ofthe first plurality of turnbuckle assemblies 30 a, and each one of thesecond plurality of turnbuckle assemblies 30 b, respectively, is rotatedin a second, opposite direction. This can be achieved by: coupling thefirst clevis 40 of each one of the first plurality of turnbuckleassemblies 30 a to the first clamp jaw 22 of the first clamp member 16;coupling the second clevis 42 of each one of the first plurality ofturnbuckle assemblies 30 a to the second clamp jaw 24 of the first clampmember 16; coupling the first clevis 40 of each one of the secondplurality of turnbuckle assemblies 30 b to the first clamp jaw 26 of thesecond clamp member 18; and coupling the second clevis 42 of each one ofthe second plurality of turnbuckle assemblies 30 b to the second clampjaw 28 of the second clamp member 18. This arrangement can befacilitated by the color coding of the first clevis 40 and the secondclevis 42.

Alternatively, the advantageous use of a color convention for the firstclevis 40 and the second clevis 42 can be achieved by: coupling thesecond clevis 42 of each one of the first plurality of turnbuckleassemblies 30 a to the first clamp jaw 22 of the first clamp member 16;coupling the first clevis 40 of each one of the first plurality ofturnbuckle assemblies 30 a to the second clamp jaw 24 of the first clampmember 16; coupling the second clevis 42 of each one of the secondplurality of turnbuckle assemblies 30 b to the first clamp jaw 26 of thesecond clamp member 18; and coupling the first clevis 40 of each one ofthe second plurality of turnbuckle assemblies 30 b to the second clampjaw 28 of the second clamp member 18.

In one embodiment, the apparatus 10 can include two of the firstplurality of turnbuckle assemblies 30 a and two of the turnbuckleassemblies 30 b, as shown in FIGS. 3-5. Alternatively, one or both ofthe first plurality of turnbuckle assemblies 30 a and the secondplurality of turnbuckle assemblies 30 b can include a single turnbuckleassembly 30, or more than two of the turnbuckle assemblies 30.

The apparatus 10 can include a plurality of circumferentially spacedspacers 44 (FIGS. 1, 2, 4 and 6), with each being attached to one of thefirst clamp member 16 and the second clamp member 18. Each of thespacers 44 can be cylindrical and can define a hollow interior that canbe configured to receive a fastener. In other embodiments, spacershaving other shapes can be attached to the first clamp member 16 and thesecond clamp member 18. Each one of the first clamp jaw 22 and thesecond clamp jaw 24 of the first clamp member 16, and each one of thefirst clamp jaw 26 and the second clamp jaw 28 of the second clampmember 18, can include a first frame 46 a and a second frame 46 b, whichcan be longitudinally spaced from the first frame 46 a, for example, byat least two of the spacers 44. Each of the spacers 44 can be attachedto each one of the first frame 46 a and the second frame 46 b, forexample, with a respective one of a plurality of fasteners 48, which canbe rivets, as shown in FIG. 4.

Each of the first frame 46 a and the second frame 46 b, of each one ofthe first clamp jaw 22 and the second clamp jaw 24 of the first clampmember 16, and each one of the first clamp jaw 26 and the second clampjaw 28 of the second clamp member 18, can be constructed from aplurality of layered plates 50, or from a single plate or bar. Threeplates 50 can be used for each of the first frame 46 a and the secondframe 46 b, as shown in FIG. 7. In other embodiments, one or both of thefirst frame 46 a and the second frame 46 b, of each of the first clampjaw 22 and the second clamp jaw 24 of the first clamp member 16, and thefirst clamp jaw 26 and the second clamp jaw 28 of the second clampmember 18, can be constructed of other numbers of layered plates. Theuse of layered plates can result in ease of manufacturing and theassociated cost reduction. The plates 50 of the first frame 46 a can bealigned with one another, and with each of the plates 50 of the secondframe 46 b, for each of the first clamp jaw 22, the first clamp jaw 26,the second clamp jaw 24, and the second clamp jaw 28, which facilitatesthe use of apparatus 10 with straight sections of pipe, for example thefirst section of pipe 12 or the second section of pipe 14 shown in FIG.1.

Each plate 50 of each of the first frame 46 a and the second frame 46 b,for each of the first clamp jaw 22 and the second clamp jaw 24 of thefirst clamp member 16, and each of the first clamp jaw 26 and the secondclamp jaw 28 of the second clamp member 18, can define a plurality ofapertures, which can be circumferentially spaced. In one embodiment, asshown in FIG. 9 with respect to one of the plates 50 of one of theframes 46 b, each plate 50 can define a plurality of apertures 52, whichcan be shaped to receive a fastener such as a rivet. In one embodiment,each of the apertures 52 can have a round shape. Each of the spacers 44can be aligned with one of the apertures 52 in a respective one of thefirst frame 46 a and the second frame 46 b, to permit a fastener to passthrough the first frame 46 a, the spacer 44, and the second frame 46 b,to attach the spacer 44 to each of the respective ones of the firstframe 46 a and the second frame 46 b.

The first frame 46 a of each one of the first clamp jaw 22 and thesecond clamp jaw 24 of the first clamp member 16, and the first clampjaw 26 and the second clamp jaw 28 of the second clamp member 18, caninclude a first end 54 a, a second end 55 a circumferentially spacedfrom the first end 54 a, and an inside surface 56 a having a radius 57 a(e.g., as shown in FIG. 3). The first frame 46 a can extend arcuatelyfrom the first end 54 a to the second end 55 a. The radius 57 a of theinside surface 56 a can be at least substantially the same, i.e., thesame or substantially the same, as the radius of the outside surface ofthe portion of the section of pipe that the first frame 46 a surrounds.The second end 55 a of the first frame 46 a can include a radiallyoutwardly extending portion 58 a and an ear 59 a extending transverselyaway from the radially outwardly extending portion 58 a.

Referring to FIG. 9, the second frame 46 b of each one of the firstclamp jaw 22 and the second clamp jaw 24 of the first clamp member 16,and the first clamp jaw 26 and the second clamp jaw 28 of the secondclamp member 18, can include a first end 54 b, a second end 55 bcircumferentially spaced from the first end 54 b, and an inside surface56 b having a radius 57 b. The second frame 46 b can extend arcuatelyfrom the first end 54 b, to the second end 55 b. The radius 57 b of theinside surface 56 b can be at least substantially the same, i.e., thesame or substantially the same, as the radius of the outside surface ofthe portion of the section of pipe that the second frame 46 b surrounds.The second end 55 b of the second frame 46 b can include a radiallyoutwardly extending portion 58 b and an ear 59 b extending transverselyaway from the radially outwardly extending portion 58 b. Theconfigurations of the radially outwardly extending portions 58 a and 58b, and the ears 59 a and 59 b, can facilitate clamping the first clampmember 16 to the second clamp member 18.

Referring to FIGS. 3, 5 and 20, each of the hinges 20 can include anarcuate portion 64 and a flange portion 65 extending away from thearcuate portion 64. The flange portion 65 can have a generallytriangular shape, which can define an aperture 66 that can be shaped andsized to receive a flexible member, for example, a cable, which can beused as a “tie-off”, to prevent the apparatus 10 from inadvertentlyfalling during assembly of the apparatus 10 to two adjacent sections ofpipe. In other embodiments, the flange portion 65 can have any one of avariety of other shapes. In still other embodiments, the flange portion65 can be omitted, for example, the hinge 20 shown in FIG. 2. Each ofthe hinges 20 can include an edge surface 67 (FIG. 20). At least aninside portion 68 of the edge surface 67 can be arcuate, and can besized so that the hinges 20 do not contact the arcuate outside surfacesof the respective sections of pipe as the clamp members 16 and 18 pivotaround the respective sections of pipe, for example the first section ofpipe 12 and the second section of pipe 14 shown in FIG. 1. Accordingly,the clamp members 16 and 18 can pivot freely around the first section ofpipe 12 and the second section of pipe 14. Each of the hinges 20 can beconstructed from multiple layers of plates 21 made from a metal alloy ormetal, which can enhance the ease of manufacturing and can reduce cost.Alternatively, each hinge 20 can be constructed as a unitary structure.

The arcuate portion 64 of one of the hinges 20 can be pivotally coupledwith each of the first frame 46 a and the second frame 46 b of the firstclamp jaw 22 of the first clamp member 16, and with each of the firstframe 46 a and the second frame 46 b of the first clamp jaw 26 of thesecond clamp member 18. For example, one end of the arcuate portion 64of the hinge 20 can be positioned within a space defined by the firstframe 46 a and the second frame 46 b of the first clamp jaw 22 of thefirst clamp member 16, and pivotally coupled with each one of the firstend 54 a of the frame 46 a, and the first end 54 b of the frame 46 b, ofthe first clamp jaw 22, using any suitable pivot member, e.g., rivets orclevis pins. The opposite end of the arcuate portion 64 of the hinge 20can be similarly, pivotally coupled with each one of the first end 54 aof the frame 46 a, and the first end 54 b of the frame 46 b, of thefirst clamp jaw 26 of the second clamp member 18. The second hinge 20can be similarly pivotally coupled with the second clamp jaw 24 of thefirst clamp member 16 and the second clamp jaw 28 of the second clampmember 18.

When the first clamp member 16 and the second clamp member 18 arepositioned around respective portions of a first section of pipe and asecond section of pipe, and each is in the closed position, the firstclamp member 16 and the second clamp member 18 can be secured to oneanother. In one embodiment, the first clamp member 16 and the secondclamp member 18 can be clamped to one another.

Apparatus 10 can include a pair of latch bolts 70 (FIGS. 4 and 7), whichcan be eye-bolts. One of the latch bolts 70 can be pivotally coupledwith one of the first clamp jaw 26 of the second clamp member 18 (FIG.4), and clamped to the first clamp jaw 22 of the first clamp member 16(FIG. 4). The other latch bolt 70 can be pivotally coupled with thesecond clamp jaw 28 of the second clamp member 18 (FIG. 4), and clampedto the second clamp jaw 24 of the first clamp member 16 (FIG. 4).

As an example of the pivotal coupling of the latch bolts 70, the latchbolt 70 pivotally coupled with the second clamp jaw 28 of the secondclamp member 18 can be pivotally coupled with the second end 55 a of thefirst frame 46 a, and the second end 55 b of the second frame 46 b, ofthe second clamp jaw 28, as shown in FIG. 2. This can be accomplishedwith a pivot member 71, which can be a pin. The pivot member 71 can beinserted through an aperture defined by the second end 55 a of the firstframe 46 a, through an aperture defined by the latch bolt 70, andthrough an aperture defined by the second end 55 b of the second frame46 b.

Apparatus 10 can include two latch plates 72, and one of the latchplates 72 can be retained on each of the latch bolts 70 by a latch boltnut 73. In one embodiment, the latch bolt 70 pivotally coupled with thesecond clamp jaw 28 of the second clamp member 18 can be rotated toposition the respective latch plate 72 against the outwardly extendingportion 58 a of the second end 55 a of the first frame 46 a, and againstthe outwardly extending portion 58 b of the second end 55 b of thesecond frame 46 b, of the second clamp jaw 24 of the first clamp member16. The nut 73 can then be tightened to clamp the second clamp jaw 24 ofthe first clamp member 16 to the second clamp jaw 28 of the second clampmember 18. The shape and size of the latch plate 72 can distribute theclamp load, or force, across the layered plates 50 of the first frame 46a and the second frame 46 b of the second clamp jaw 24 of the firstclamp member 16. The latch plate 72 can also provide a wear surface forthe nut 73. The ear 59 a of the second end 55 a of the first frame 46 a,and the ear 59 b of the second end 55 b of the second frame 46 b, of thesecond clamp jaw 24, can facilitate retaining the latch plate 72 as thenut 73 is tightened. The latch bolt 70 pivotally coupled with the firstclamp jaw 26 can be clamped to the first clamp jaw 22 in a similarmanner. Alternatively, one of the latch bolts 70 can be pivotallycoupled with the first clamp jaw 22 and clamped to the first clamp jaw26, as shown in FIG. 19. Also, the other latch bolt 70 can alternativelybe pivotally coupled with second clamp jaw 24 and clamped to the secondclamp jaw 28.

Apparatus 10 can include a plurality of turnbuckle lugs 80 (FIGS.13-15). Each of the turnbuckle lugs 80 can include a first portion 81and a second portion 82 that can be integral with, and extend away from,the first portion 81. In one embodiment, the first portion 81 and thesecond portion 82 can be made as a unitary structure. The second portionof 82 of each of the turnbuckle lugs 80 can be generally T-shaped, andcan include a rectangular insert 83 and a pair of posts 84, which can beintegral with the insert 83 and can extend away from opposite sides ofthe insert 83. In one embodiment, each of the posts 84 can have arectangular cross-sectional shape. Each one of the first clevis 40 andthe second clevis 42 can define a slot that can be configured to receivethe first portion 81 of a respective one of the lugs 80.

Referring to FIGS. 2 and 4, each one of a first plurality of theturnbuckle lugs, designated 80 a, can couple a respective one of thefirst plurality of turnbuckle assemblies 30 a with the first clamp jaw22 of the first clamp member 16. In one embodiment, the first portion 81of each one of the first plurality of turnbuckle lugs 80 a can bepivotally coupled with the first clevis 40 of a respective one of thefirst plurality of turnbuckle assemblies 30 a, and the second portion 82of each one of the first plurality of turnbuckle lugs 80 a can be fixedto the first clamp jaw 22 of the first clamp member 16.

Each one of a second plurality of the turnbuckle lugs, designated 80 b,can couple a respective one of the first plurality of turnbuckleassemblies 30 a with the second clamp jaw 24 of the first clamp member16. In one embodiment, the first portion 81 of each one of the secondplurality of turnbuckle lugs 80 b can be pivotally coupled with thesecond clevis 42 of the first plurality of turnbuckle assemblies 30 a,and the second portion 82 of each one of the second plurality ofturnbuckle lugs 80 b can be fixed to the second clamp jaw 24 of thefirst clamp member 16.

Each one of a third plurality of the turnbuckle lugs, designated 80 c,can couple a respective one of the second plurality of turnbuckleassemblies 30 b with the first clamp jaw 26 of the second clamp member18. In one embodiment, the first portion 81 of each one of the thirdplurality of turnbuckle lugs 80 c can be pivotally coupled with thefirst clevis 40 of a respective one of the second plurality ofturnbuckle assemblies 30 b, and the second portion 82 of each one of thethird plurality of turnbuckle lugs 80 c can be fixed to the first clampjaw 26 of the second clamp member 18.

Each one of a fourth plurality of the turnbuckle lugs, designated 80 d,can couple a respective one of the second plurality of turnbuckleassemblies 30 b with the second clamp jaw 28 of the second clamp member18. In one embodiment, the first portion 81 of each one of the fourthplurality of turnbuckle lugs 80 d can be pivotally coupled with thesecond clevis 42 of a respective one of the second plurality ofturnbuckle assemblies 30 b, and the second portion 82 of each one of thefourth plurality of turnbuckle lugs 80 d can be fixed to the secondclamp jaw 28 of the second clamp member 18.

For each one of the first plurality of turnbuckle lugs 80 a, the secondplurality of turnbuckle lugs 80 b, the third plurality of turnbucklelugs 80 c, and the fourth plurality of turnbuckle lugs 80 d, one of theposts 84 can be positioned within an aperture defined by the first frame46 a of the respective clamp jaw, for example the first clamp jaw 22 ofthe first clamp member 16, and the other post 84 can be positionedwithin an aperture defined by the second frame 46 b of the respectiveclamp jaw, for example, the first clamp jaw 22 of the first clamp member16.

Each one of the first plurality of lugs 80 a, the second plurality oflugs 80 b, the third plurality of lugs 80 c, and the fourth plurality oflugs 80 d, can be pivotally coupled with the respective one of the firstplurality of turnbuckle assemblies 30 a and the second plurality ofturnbuckle assemblies 30 b, using clevis pins, or by any other suitablepivot structure. Clevis pins can enhance the speed and ease of assemblyby a work crew.

Referring to FIGS. 1-8, apparatus 10 can include a plurality of threadedmembers 86, which can be bolts, which can be used to provide furtheradjustment, or fine turning, of the alignment of two sections of pipe,for example the first section of pipe 12 and the second section of pipe14 shown in FIG. 1. Each of the threaded members 86 can be threadedthrough an aperture 87 defined by a respective one of the first clevis40 and the second clevis 42 of a respective one of the turnbuckleassemblies 30, at a location that can be longitudinally spaced from athreaded bore 45 in the first clevis 40, and from a threaded bore 47 inthe second clevis 42, which receive the rod 32.

For example, for each of the first plurality of turnbuckle assemblies 30a, a threaded member 86 can be threaded into and through the aperture 87defined by the first clevis 40 and into contact with the first portion81 of a respective one of the first plurality of turnbuckle lugs 80 a.Another threaded member 86 can be threaded into and through the aperture87 defined by the second clevis 42, and into contact with the firstportion 81 of a respective one of the second plurality of turnbucklelugs 80 b. Further rotation of the threaded members 86 can cause theturnbuckle lugs 80 a and 80 b to force the respective one of the firstclamp jaw 22 and the second clamp jaw 24 to pivot inwardly. This cancause the respective sections of pipe to move laterally, to providefurther adjustment to the alignment of two sections of pipe, forexample, the first section of pipe 12 and the second section of pipe 14.

Selective operation of all of the threaded members 86 can result in afine tuning of the lateral alignment of two sections of pipe. Also,selective operation of the threaded members 86 can vary the orientationsof the opposing end faces of the two sections of pipe, between anangular orientation and a parallel orientation within certainlimitations, for example the limitations of movement of the turnbuckleassembles 30, and within limits determined by the requirements of theparticular installation.

The adjustment of the lateral positions of the sections of pipe with thethreaded members 86 can result in significant forces being applied tothe respective ones of the turnbuckle assemblies 30. However, theturnbuckle assemblies 30 can be sized and configured to minimize theresultant stresses. For example, the threaded members 86 can extendtransversely through a solid portion 41, 43 of the respective clevis 40,42, of the respective turnbuckle assembly 30. Each of the solid portions41 and 43 can have a significantly larger cross-sectional area than therods 32 of the turnbuckle assemblies 30. The smallest cross-sectionalarea of each turnbuckle assembly 30 can be the cross-sectional area ofeach of the exposed portions of the rod 32, i.e., the portions of therod 32 positioned between the torquing member 34 and the first clevis40, and between the torquing member 34 and the second clevis 42. Clevis40 has a length L1 and clevis 42 has a length L2 (FIG. 11). The lengthL1 of the clevis 40 and the length L2 of the clevis 42 can be sized sothat the interfaces between the torquing member 34 and the exposedportions of the rod 32, as well as the interfaces between each of theclevises 40, 42 and the exposed portions of the rod 32, can besufficiently spaced longitudinally from the threaded members 86.

In one embodiment, for each one of the first plurality of turnbuckleassemblies 30 a and each one of the second plurality of turnbuckleassemblies 30 b, the torquing member 34 can include a first end surface88 and a second end surface 89 spaced from the first end surface 88 by afirst distance D1 (FIG. 11). The first end surface 88 can be spaced fromthe first clevis 40 by a second distance D2 (FIG. 10) and the second endsurface 89 can be spaced from the second clevis 42 by a third distanceD3 (FIG. 10). The length L1 of the first clevis 40 and the length L2 ofthe second clevis 42 can each be greater than each one of the firstdistance D1, the second distance D2, and the third distance D3.Additionally, the torquing member 34 can be positioned at leastsubstantially midway, i.e., midway or substantially midway, between thefirst clevis 40 and the second clevis 42.

FIGS. 22-25 illustrate an apparatus 110 for aligning sections of pipeaccording to another embodiment. FIG. 22 illustrates the apparatus 110in association with a straight section of pipe 112 and an L-shapedsection of pipe 114. The apparatus 110 can include a first clamp member116 and a second clamp member 118, which can be clamped together whenthe first clamp member 116 and the second clamp member 118 are in theirrespective closed positions, in surrounding and contacting relationshipwith respective portions of the first section of pipe 112 and the secondsection of pipe 114.

The first clamp member 116 can include a first clamp jaw 122 and asecond clamp jaw 124 longitudinally spaced from the first clamp jaw 122.The second clamp member 118 can include a first clamp jaw 126 and asecond clamp jaw 128 longitudinally spaced from the first clamp jaw 126.Apparatus 110 can include a first plurality of turnbuckle assemblies 130a, which can be coupled with each one of the first clamp jaw 122 and thesecond clamp jaw 124 of the first clamp member 116. Apparatus 110 canalso include a second plurality of turnbuckle assemblies 130 b, whichcan be coupled with each one of the first clamp jaw 126 and the secondclamp jaw 128 of the second clamp member 118. Each of the first clampjaw 122 and the second clamp jaw 124 of the first clamp member 116, andeach of the first clamp jaw 126 and the second clamp jaw 128 of thesecond clamp member 118, can include a first frame 146 a and a secondframe 146 b longitudinally spaced from the first frame 146 a. Each ofthe frames 146 a and 146 b can include a plurality of layered plates150. Each of the frames 146 a can extend arcuately from a first end 154a to a second end 155 a, and each of the second frames 146 b can extendarcuately from a first end 154 b to a second end 155 b.

The plates 150 of the frames 146 a and 146 b of one or more of the firstclamp jaw 122 of the first clamp member 116, the second clamp jaw 124 ofthe first clamp member 116, the first clamp jaw 126 of the second clampmember 118, and the second clamp jaw 128 of the second clamp member 118,can be configured to accommodate the shape of the L-shaped section ofpipe 114. For example, in one embodiment, the plates 150 of each of theframes 146 a and 146 b of the first clamp jaw 122 of the first clampmember 116, and the plates 150 of each of the frames 146 a and 146 b ofthe first clamp jaw 126 of the second clamp member 118, can be offsetrelative to one another, as shown in FIGS. 24 and 25. Referring to FIGS.23-25, each of the plates 150 of the first frame 146 a of the firstclamp jaw 122, and each of the plates 150 of the first frame 146 a ofthe first clamp jaw 126, can taper, or reduce in width, from the secondend 155 a to the first end 154 a, by varying amounts. Similarly, each ofthe plates 150 of the second frame 146 b of the first clamp jaw 122, andeach of the plates 150 of the second frame 146 b of the first clamp jaw126, can taper, or reduce in width, from the second end 155 b to thefirst end 154 b, by varying amounts.

Apparatus 110 can include two hinges 120, which can hingedly couple thefirst clamp member 116 with the second clamp member 118. The two hinges120 can have different colors, for ease of identification of theapparatus 110, which can facilitate a worker in selecting the desiredapparatus for a particular application. The components and configurationof the apparatus 110 can otherwise be the same as, or similar to, thecomponents and configuration of apparatus 10.

FIGS. 26-29 illustrate a shoe insert 90 according to one embodiment. Anassembly can be made from a kit of components that can include aplurality of the shoe inserts 90, of a variety of sizes. In oneembodiment, the assembly can include the apparatus 10 and two pairs ofthe shoe inserts 90 coupled with the apparatus 10, to adapt apparatus 10for use with two adjacent sections of pipe, which each have a smalleroutside diameter than the outside diameter of pipes that the frames 46 aand 46 b of apparatus 10 are sized to engage.

Each shoe insert 90 can include an arcuate portion 91 and a flangeportion 92, which can be attached to the arcuate portion 91. The arcuateportion 91 can include a plurality of arcuate plates 93, which can beattached to one another with one or more conventional fasteners 75, forexample, rivets or mating bolts and nuts. Each of the arcuate plates 93can include an inside surface 94 that has a radius 95. The radius 95 canbe smaller than a radius 57 a of an inside surface 56 a of each of theframes 46 a of apparatus 10, and can be smaller than a radius 57 b of aninside surface 56 b of each of the frames 46 b of the apparatus 10.

The flange portion 92 can include a plurality of flange plates 96, whichcan be spaced as shown in FIG. 27. The flange plates 96 can be attachedto each other, and to the arcuate plates 93, using one or more of theconventional fasteners 75. Each flange plate 96 can include a pair ofshoulders 97, and can define an aperture 98 (FIG. 26). Each shoe insert90 can be coupled with the apparatus 10 by aligning the aperture 98 withapertures defined by respective ones of the frames 46 a and 46 b, andinserting any suitable fastener, e.g., a pin or bolt, which can besecured, e.g., with a clip or nut, respectively, so that the fastenercan be removed easily. When each of the shoe inserts 90 is coupled withapparatus 10, each of the shoulders 97 of each shoe insert 90 cancooperate with a respective one of the turnbuckle lugs 80, for example,the second portion 82 of the respective one of the turnbuckle lugs 80,to at least inhibit, i.e., prevent or inhibit, rotation of the shoeinsert 90.

The apparatus for aligning sections of pipe (e.g., 10, 110) can be usedto quickly and accurately position the ends of adjacent sections of pipein optimum relation for welding, or otherwise joining, the sections ofpipe to form a continuous pipe. Accordingly, the apparatus (e.g., 10,110) can facilitate the rapid construction of pipelines for theconveyance of gases or liquids. One application of the apparatus (e.g.,10, 110) is to align adjacent sections of pipe that may be imperfect dueto minor variances in the outside diameter of one or both of the pipesections to be joined.

Apparatus 10 can be advantageously used to align two straight sectionsof pipe, while apparatus 110 can be advantageously used to align astraight section of pipe with an L-shaped section of pipe. In otherembodiments, apparatus according to the inventive principles can beadvantageously used to align other combinations of straight, L-shaped,and T-shaped sections of pipe.

The apparatus (e.g., 10, 110) can be used to adjust the relativepositions of adjacent sections of pipe both longitudinally andlaterally, or transversely. Also, within certain limitations, theapparatus (e.g., 10, 110) can be used to vary the orientations of theopposing end faces of the two adjacent sections of pipe, between anangular orientation and a parallel orientation. These and otheradvantages will be described with regard to apparatus 10 for purposes ofillustration and not of limitation.

The first clamp member 16 and the second clamp member 18, can behingedly coupled, with each being pivotally coupled with a pair ofhinges (e.g., 20), which facilitates positioning apparatus 10 insurrounding relationship with the two sections of pipe to be joined.Once apparatus 10 is in position, the first clamp member 16 can beclamped to the second clamp member 18 so that each of the clamp members16, 18 engages each section of pipe to be joined. This can securely holdthe two sections of pipe during the welding process, which can enhancethe accuracy of the weld.

The relative longitudinal positions of two adjacent sections of pipe canbe accurately and easily adjusted using turnbuckle assemblies (e.g.,30). Each of the first clamp jaw 22 of the first clamp member 16 and thefirst clamp jaw 26 of the second clamp member 18, can partiallysurround, and be forced against, respective portions of a first sectionof pipe. Each of the second clamp jaw 24 of the first clamp member 16and the second clamp jaw 28 of the second clamp member 18, can partiallysurround, and be forced against, respective portions of a second sectionof pipe. A first plurality of the turnbuckle assemblies 30 (e.g., 30 a)can be coupled with each one of, and can vary the longitudinal spacingbetween, the first clamp jaw 22 and the second clamp jaw 24 of the firstclamp member 16. Similarly, a second plurality of the turnbuckleassemblies 30 (e.g., 30 b) can be coupled with each one of, and can varythe longitudinal spacing between, the first clamp jaw 26 and the secondclamp jaw 28 of the second clamp member 18. Accordingly, the firstplurality of turnbuckle assemblies 30 a and the second plurality ofturnbuckle assemblies 30 b can be adjusted, by rotating the respectivetorquing member 34 and rod 32, to accurately and easily adjust thelongitudinal positions of the first and second sections of pipe.

The configuration of apparatus 10 can provide unobstructed access to theweld joint, which can enhance the accuracy and speed of the weldingprocess. The unobstructed access results from the longitudinal spacingof the first clamp jaw 22 and the second clamp jaw 24 of the first clampmember 16, the longitudinal spacing of the first clamp jaw 26 and thesecond clamp jaw 28 of the second clamp member 18, the circumferentialspacing of the first plurality of turnbuckle assemblies 30 a along thefirst clamp member 16, and the circumferential spacing of the secondplurality of turnbuckle assemblies 30 b along the second clamp member18.

The devises of the turnbuckle assemblies (e.g., 40, 42) can be colorcoded to facilitate coordinated adjustment of the turnbuckle assembliesby a work crew. For example, devises having a first color can bethreaded onto a first portion of the respective rod 32 of the turnbuckleassembly 30, which has right-hand threads, and devises having a second,different color can be threaded onto a second portion of the rod 32,which has left-hand threads. In this manner, rotation of the rods 32 ofeach turnbuckle assembly 30 in a first direction can cause the firstclamp jaw 22 to move away from the second clamp jaw 24, and can causethe first clamp jaw 26 to move away from the second clamp jaw 28, whilerotation of the rod 32 of each turnbuckle assembly 30 in an oppositedirection can cause the respective clamp jaws to move toward each other.

The relative lateral positions of two adjacent sections of pipe can beaccurately and easily adjusted by selective operation of the threadedmembers 86 of apparatus 10, which can be bolts that may be referred toas “jack bolts”. Each of the threaded members 86 can be threaded throughone of the clevises (e.g., 40, 42) of the respective turnbuckle assembly30 and into contacting engagement with one of the lugs 80 of apparatus10, with further rotation of the threaded member 86 causing one of theclamp jaws of apparatus 10 to pivot inwardly, which in turn can causeone of the sections of pipe to move laterally. For example, rotation ofthe threaded members 86 that extend laterally, or transversely, throughthe clevis 40 of a corresponding one of the first plurality ofturnbuckle assemblies 30 a, and into engagement with a respective one ofthe turnbuckle lugs 80 a, can cause the first clamp jaw 22 of the firstclamp member 16 to pivot inwardly, which can cause lateral movement ofthe respective section of pipe.

As may be appreciated, use of the threaded members 86 to adjust thelateral positions of sections of pipe, can result in significant forcesbeing applied to the respective turnbuckle assemblies 30. However, theturnbuckle assemblies 30 can be configured to minimize the resultantstress. For example, the threaded members 86 can extend transverselythrough a solid portion (e.g., 41, 43) of the clevis (e.g. 40, 42) ofthe respective turnbuckle assembly 30, which can have a significantlylarger cross-sectional area than the rod 32 of the turnbuckle assembly30. Also, the lengths of the devises (e.g., 40, 42) can be sized so thatthe interfaces between the torquing member 34 and the exposed portionsof the rod 32, i.e., outside of the devises, as well as the interfacesbetween each of the clevises 40, 42 and the exposed portions of the rod32, are sufficiently spaced longitudinally from the threaded members 86.

Each of the frames (e.g., 46 a, 46 b) of each of the clamp jaws (e.g.,22, 24) of the first clamp member 16, and each of the frames (e.g., 46a, 46 b) of each of the clamp jaws (e.g., 26, 28) of the second clampmember 18, can be constructed from a plurality of plates 50, for examplethree plates 50 in one embodiment, which can enhance the ease ofmanufacturing and reduce cost. Similarly, each of the hinges 20 can beconstructed from multiple plates, for example, two or more plates, whichcan also enhance the ease of manufacturing and reduce cost.

Piping is generally available in standard sizing throughout theindustry. Accordingly, the apparatus for aligning sections of pipe(e.g., 10, 110) can be constructed to accommodate standard piping sizes.However, a pair of shoe inserts (e.g., 90) can be coupled with theapparatus (e.g., 10, 110) to adapt the apparatus (e.g., 10, 110) for usewith a pipe having a smaller outside diameter. For example, the insideradius of each of the shoe inserts 90 can be smaller than the insideradius of the frames (e.g., 46 a, 46 b) of the first and second clampjaws (e.g., 22, 24; and 26, 28) of the first and second clamp members(e.g., 16, 18) of the apparatus 10. The use of shoe inserts 90 to adaptthe apparatus 10 for use with a smaller size pipe, can enable greatereconomy because a complete separate apparatus may no longer be neededfor every size of pipe encountered. For example, a properly sized shoeinsert 90 would allow the combination of the apparatus 10 and a pair ofthe shoe inserts 90 to be used with a pipe having a four inch outsidediameter, instead of a pipe having a six inch outside diameter, withoutthe need or use of another tool. A kit of parts including the apparatus(e.g., 10, 110) and shoe inserts (e.g., 90) having a variety of insideradiuses, can permit the use of the apparatus (e.g., 10, 110) withmultiple pipes having different outside diameters.

While various embodiments of an apparatus for aligning sections of pipe,and an assembly made from a kit of components, have been described inconsiderable detail, it is not intended to restrict or in any way limitthe scope of the appended claims to such detail. Additionalmodifications will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art.

I claim:
 1. An apparatus for aligning sections of pipe, the apparatuscomprising: a first clamp member comprising a first clamp jaw and asecond clamp jaw longitudinally spaced from the first clamp jaw; asecond clamp member hingedly coupled with the first clamp member, thesecond clamp member comprising a first clamp jaw and a second clamp jawlongitudinally spaced from the first clamp jaw; a first turnbuckleassembly and a second turnbuckle assembly, wherein each turnbuckleassembly comprises a first clevis, a second clevis, a rod, and atorquing member secured to the rod, wherein each clevis is threadedlyengaged with the rod; and a turnbuckle lug having a first portion and asecond portion, wherein the second portion is integral with and extendsaway from the first portion, wherein the second portion is T shaped,wherein the first portion is coupled with the first turnbuckle assembly,and wherein the second portion is coupled with the first clamp jaw ofthe first clamp member; wherein each one of the first clamp jaw and thesecond clamp jaw of the first clamp member, and each one of the firstclamp jaw and the second clamp jaw of the second clamp member, comprisesa first frame and a second frame spaced apart from the first frame byone or more spacers; wherein the first turnbuckle assembly is coupledwith each one of, and is adjustable to vary the longitudinal spacingbetween, the first clamp jaw and the second clamp jaw of the first clampmember; and wherein the second turnbuckle assembly is coupled with eachone of, and is adjustable to vary the longitudinal spacing between, thefirst clamp jaw and the second clamp jaw of the second clamp member. 2.The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the torquing member of the firstturnbuckle assembly comprises a nut having a polygonal shape, and havinga first end surface and a second end surface spaced from the first endsurface.
 3. The apparatus of claim 2, wherein the nut is positionedmidway between the first clevis and the second clevis of the firstturnbuckle assembly.
 4. The apparatus of claim 2, wherein the first endsurface of the torquing member of the first turnbuckle assembly isspaced apart from the first clevis of the first turnbuckle assembly by afirst distance; and the length of the first clevis of the firstturnbuckle assembly is greater than the first distance.
 5. The apparatusof claim 1, wherein the turnbuckle lug further comprises a rectangularinsert and a first post which is integral with said rectangular insert.6. The apparatus of claim 5, wherein the turnbuckle lug furthercomprising a second post integral with said rectangular insert.
 7. Theapparatus of claim 6, wherein the first post and the second post extendaway from opposite sides of the rectangular insert.
 8. The apparatus ofclaim 6, wherein the first post and the second post each have arectangular cross-sectional shape.
 9. The apparatus of claim 1 furthercomprising: a threaded member extending through a solid portion of thefirst clevis and into selective engagement with the first portion of thelug.
 10. The apparatus of claim 1, further comprising: a first hinge,wherein the first clamp jaw of the first clamp member and the firstclamp jaw of the second clamp member are pivotally coupled with thefirst hinge; and a second hinge, wherein the second clamp jaw of thefirst clamp member and the second clamp jaw of the second clamp memberare pivotally coupled with the second hinge; wherein each of the firstclamp member and the second clamp member is pivotable between an openposition and a closed position.
 11. The apparatus of claim 10, whereinthe torquing member of the first turnbuckle assembly comprises a nuthaving a polygonal shape, and having a first end surface and a secondend surface spaced from the first end surface.
 12. The apparatus ofclaim 11, wherein the nut is positioned midway between the first clevisand the second clevis of the first turnbuckle assembly.
 13. Theapparatus of claim 11, wherein the first end surface of the torquingmember of the first turnbuckle assembly is spaced apart from the firstclevis of the first turnbuckle assembly by a first distance; and thelength of the first clevis of the first turnbuckle assembly is greaterthan the first distance.
 14. The apparatus of claim 10, wherein theturnbuckle lug further comprises a rectangular insert and a first postwhich is integral with said rectangular insert.
 15. The apparatus ofclaim 14, wherein the further comprising a second post integral withsaid rectangular insert.
 16. The apparatus of claim 15, wherein thefirst post and the second post extend away from opposite sides of therectangular insert.
 17. The apparatus of claim 15, wherein the firstpost and the second post each have a rectangular cross-sectional shape.18. The apparatus of claim 10 further comprising: a threaded memberextending through a solid portion of the first clevis and into selectiveengagement with the first portion of the lug.